Are Spider Veins a Health Risk?

Keeping your legs healthy and looking young can become harder as you age. As you get older, your chances of developing spider veins can increase, which can cause health issues and affect your self-confidence.

Board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, understands why spider veins form and how to get rid of them. To reduce the look of spider veins and improve the overall health of your legs and other parts of your body where they may exist, he offers the latest laser treatment services.

Why spider veins form

Spider veins are those red and purple lines, usually found on your legs, that resemble spider webs. These noticeable veins can form if the valves in your veins aren’t working properly.

Blood is supposed to flow through your veins, and the valves in them are supposed to stop the blood from flowing backward once it’s passed through. When not working properly, dysfunctional valves can allow blood to flow in the wrong direction and pool in a vein. This can cause the vein to enlarge and become more apparent under the surface of your skin.

The health risks of spider veins

In general, spider veins are considered more of a cosmetic issue than a health problem. However, spider veins and the larger, twisted varicose veins can become symptomatic.

It’s important to schedule an evaluation with board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, if your spider vein begins to exhibit symptoms, such as:

• Pain
• Itching
• Burning
• Warmth
• Bleeding
• Sudden swelling

These symptoms can indicate an underlying health problem, such as a blood clot, or a more serious vein disease. If caught early, treatments are available to prevent long-term health complications related to these issues.

Even if you aren’t bothered by physical symptoms of spider veins, you may be exploring your options for nonsurgical treatments to get rid of them. Board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, offers in-office laser treatments designed to eliminate spider veins and improve leg health.

How laser technology treats spider veins without surgery

Board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, offers innovative laser treatments such as the Cutera Excel V Plus and can address damaged veins in your legs and other areas of your body. Laser energy targets the spider veins beneath the surface of your skin without the need for incisions. The Cutera Excel V Plus laser can also cosmetically--and safely-- treat the bothersome blue veins around the eyes.

Using laser energy on the vein causes it to shrink and collapse. The blood then reroutes itself to nearby veins to keep your blood circulating. Ultimately, the destroyed vein is reabsorbed by your body without the need for more treatment.

With blood now flowing through healthy veins, your circulation and overall leg health will improve. You also get the benefit of younger-looking legs as the spider veins disappear.

Laser treatments are quick, painless, and safe for all skin types. Board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, will customize your treatment to meet your needs, and, as he always does, he will make safety his top priority throughout your procedure.

To learn more about your options for eliminating spider veins, book an appointment online or over the phone with Balcones Dermatology & Aesthetics today.